Diabetes Specialist

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a set of conditions that affect your body’s ability to manage blood sugar (glucose) levels. When you have diabetes, your body has trouble using the hormone insulin to convert glucose into energy. 

In a person with diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce insulin or is unable to use what is produced effectively to normalize your blood sugar levels, and chronically high blood sugar has dire effects on your health. 

There are two primary types of diabetes:

Type 1

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition usually diagnosed in your youth. In this version, your body’s immune system attacks cells in your pancreas responsible for making insulin. As a result, you don’t produce the hormone at all and need replacement insulin. 

Type 2 

Type 2 diabetes is usually a disease of middle or older age but is increasingly diagnosed in people of a younger age. This condition occurs when you’re insulin resistant, meaning your body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it correctly. Lifestyles and habits play a role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.

People may also be diagnosed with prediabetes. This is a condition in which blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough to qualify as full diabetes. Without intervention and lifestyle changes, prediabetics will develop Type 2 diabetes. 

When should I suspect diabetes?

Prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes develop slowly, so you may not notice symptoms. This is why getting regular blood sugar tests at annual exams is important. 

The following symptoms suggest Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes that has progressed too long without management:

• Frequent urination
• Hunger, although you regularly eat
• Feelings of persistent thirst
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Numbness and tingling in your feet
• Slow-healing cuts or bruises

Make an appointment at Modern Wellness Clinic right away if you do have any of these symptoms. 

What is involved in diabetes management?

At Modern Wellness Clinic, the team works with you to manage your condition. You can benefit from regular diabetic checks to monitor your blood sugar levels and determine if your treatment plan is helping keep your glucose levels in a safe range. 

Depending on your particular case, you will be prescribed insulin (and potentially an insulin pump) or medications to help control your blood sugar. The team can also help you implement lifestyle modifications such as weight and diet management and more physical activity. 

Call Modern Wellness Clinic today to set up an appointment for all your diabetes needs. Alternatively, use the online tool to set up your visit.